Maxx Crosby’s future in Las Vegas is suddenly one of the biggest storylines of the NFL offseason-and for good reason. The five-time Pro Bowler remains one of the league’s most disruptive edge rushers, and if the Raiders even entertain the idea of moving him, the market will be fierce.
While there’s been no official word from the Raiders about shopping Crosby, the buzz is building. And if a blockbuster deal does go down, three teams are already being mentioned as potential suitors: the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and New England Patriots. Each brings a different level of urgency and fit, but all three have compelling reasons to pick up the phone.
Let’s start with the champs.
Seattle just hoisted the Lombardi Trophy, and they did it with a defense that finished top-10 in sacks last season, racking up 47. That group was already dangerous, and the idea of adding a player like Crosby to the mix?
That’s nightmare fuel for opposing quarterbacks. Sure, Boye Mafe is set to hit free agency, but he wasn’t a major contributor down the stretch.
The Seahawks have the cap space to make a splash, and while they only hold four picks in this year’s draft, they still own selections in each of the first three rounds. That’s more than enough ammo if they decide Crosby is the missing piece to a repeat run.
Then there’s New England, a team that’s quietly building something under the radar. The Patriots’ pass rush left a lot on the table in 2025, and with K’Lavon Chaisson-second on the team in sacks-set to hit free agency, there’s a clear need for an elite edge presence. They’ve got the cap flexibility to absorb Crosby’s deal, and they’ve got the draft capital to make a serious offer.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Crosby reportedly told The Athletic’s Dianna Russini that he’d like to play for Mike Vrabel. That’s a big deal.
If the Raiders give Crosby any say in his destination-a real possibility considering the respect he’s earned in Vegas-Vrabel’s presence could tip the scales. Add in the fact that the Patriots are positioned as a legitimate contender, and you’ve got a scenario where both sides could see eye to eye.
And finally, the 49ers.
San Francisco is in the most desperate spot of the three when it comes to edge help. They finished last in sacks in 2025.
Dead last. That’s not going to cut it in an NFC West loaded with high-powered passing attacks.
Joey Bosa is working his way back from a torn ACL, and while there’s hope he’ll be ready for Week 1, ACL recoveries are unpredictable. Even if Bosa suits up on time, there’s no guarantee he’ll be the same player right away.
For a franchise with Super Bowl aspirations and a defense that’s built to dominate in the trenches, adding Crosby would be a game-changer. He’s the kind of player who can instantly elevate a unit-both in production and presence.
Bottom line: If Maxx Crosby becomes available, the bidding war will be intense. The Seahawks have the cap room and a championship window.
The Patriots have the draft picks and a coach Crosby admires. The 49ers have the most glaring need and the urgency to fix it now.
This isn’t just a trade rumor. It’s a potential league-shifting move. And if the Raiders open the door, expect these three teams-and probably a few more-to come knocking hard.